Abstract

At present the Medicines and Related Substances Act (101 of 1965) only applies to allopathic medicines. However, on July 22 2011, the Minister of Health, Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, published draft amendments to the General Regulations in terms of the Act with the aim of bringing complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) into its ambit. In terms of the proposed amendments, a "complementary medicine," is defined as one that is used, or intended to be used for, or manufactured or sold for use in assisting the innate healing power of a human being or animal; and that is used in accordance with the practice of the professions regulated under the Allied Health Professions Act (63 of 1982).